One, Two, Three, Pollito Inglés: The Japanese and U.S. Versions

The game where you sneak up on someone counting with their back turned and freeze when they turn around exists in many countries: in Spain it is «Un, dos, tres, pollito inglés», in Japan «Daruma-san ga koronda» and in the U.S. «Red Light, Green Light». We use it to warm up with different movements and to work on stopping and balance.

How to play

1. Explain the game and its three names. Form three groups of 9-10, each facing a wall with one counter (1 min).
2. Spain version: the counter says the phrase facing the wall and turns around; anyone caught moving goes back to the start. Free movement (3 min).
3. Japan version: the phrase is «Da-ru-ma-san ga ko-ron-da», and the counter may say it fast or slow. Move on all fours or with side steps (3 min).
4. U.S. version: on «green light» you move, on «red light» you freeze, and the caller doesn't turn; every freeze is a one-leg balance (3 min).

Rules

• Whoever reaches the wall touches it and becomes the counter next game.
• If it's unclear whether someone moved, the counter decides, no arguing.
• No sprinting to the wall: fast walking is the top speed.
• Start at least 15 meters away so the game lasts.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visual impairment: the counter claps loudly when turning, and the student moves with a sighted guide.
• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user moves in the same round and freezes by letting go of the wheels.
• Ankle injury: be the counter the whole time, or always freeze on two feet.

Learning goals

• Control stopping and static posture.
• Warm up with varied movement patterns.
• Learn versions of the same game from three countries.

Teacher tip

Three small groups work far better than one big one: more students get to count and there are fewer arguments. If someone keeps winning by shoving, make them the counter.

More activities like this

More warm-ups for Middle School